Carving Joy into South Shore Life

When Scituate resident Paul Kukstis received a gift certificate from his wife in an Easter basket for a carving class more than 40 years ago, he never imagined it would spark a career. Today, Kukstis Woodcarving is a thriving studio where traditional handcraft meets artistic passion and he celebrated 20 years in business on Front Street this fall.

What began as a hobby soon grew into a calling. For years, Kukstis had worked as an auctioneer in the rare stamp business, but the rise of online platforms like eBay shifted the industry and gave him the chance to pivot.

“My hobby turned into a full-time business,” he said.

That transition was fueled, in part, by a defining moment on September 11, 2001. While driving to work, he turned around after speaking with his wife and chose to focus on carving instead.

“It was such a powerful, emotional day,” Kukstis said. “That was the day I decided to stop working at something that I didn't like and pursue something that brought me joy.”

Since then, Kukstis Woodcarving has become known for custom signs, sculptures and one-of-a-kind commissions. Each piece is crafted by hand using old-school methods.

Every project is unique. Some days, Paul is carving a dozen small pieces, while others require him to focus on one large sculpture. Over the years, his requests have ranged from the unusual to the iconic.

“A few years ago, there was a client down in Rhode Island that was big into blue lobsters,” he recalled. “So, I carved a four-foot-long lobster base for a glass top coffee table, which is kind of an unusual piece.”

His work can also be found on some of Boston’s best-known landmarks. “Last year I did a project for the Black Rose Pub,” Kukstis said. “On the corner of the building above the front door, there's a big figurehead of a black rose like something you would see on an old sailing ship... and I had to make them a new one.”

Beyond commissions, Kukstis also teaches woodcarving at his studio, sharing the craft with others. He says the joy of creating keeps him motivated after decades in the workshop.

“It never really feels like work,” he said. “There's a joy in just woodcarving as an art form.”

For those thinking about changing careers, his advice is simple.

“I would say don't hesitate,” Kukstis said. “I wish I had done it sooner. Don't hesitate because you never know what the future is going to be.”

For Kukstis, carving has turned not only into a livelihood, but also a source of daily satisfaction.

“If you do something you like, your whole mental state is going to change,” he said.

You can see Paul’s creations and watch videos of him in action on Facebook, Instagram, and his website.